New Delhi, September 6, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
FIFA President Gianni Infantino will seek re-election for a fourth term in 2027, despite facing criticism over his controversial proposal to sell minority stakes in FIFA competitions to private investment firms.
Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016, is expected to contest the presidential election at the FIFA Congress in Morocco next year. His decision brings an end to months of uncertainty over whether he would pursue another term amid opposition from football administrators and national associations.
“Mr. Infantino will be standing for re-election,” FIFA said in a statement, reiterating an announcement made by the president in April.
The Swiss-Italian administrator succeeded as FIFA president in 2016 and was subsequently re-elected unopposed in 2019 and 2023. He is now seeking another four-year mandate.
His re-election bid comes after a major dispute over a proposal to raise additional commercial revenue by offering private investors minority stakes in FIFA competitions. The plan drew strong opposition within the football community, with concerns over the potential influence of private investors on the ownership and control of FIFA events.
UEFA had even threatened to consider boycotting FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, over the proposal. The European governing body later withdrew the threat after receiving assurances that FIFA would not pursue similar private-investment ownership arrangements again.
Infantino has also faced criticism from FIFA vice presidents and officials representing different regions, including Asia, Europe and North America. He has nevertheless continued to defend FIFA’s record and has highlighted the governing body’s financial investment in football development through major international events.
Potential challengers to Infantino have until November 18 to formally declare their intention to contest the election. The race could become competitive if one or more candidates decide to challenge the incumbent.
Infantino has so far made limited public comments about the election. During his appearance at the Women’s U20 World Cup in Poland this week, he did not elaborate on his electoral plans or the continuing disagreement with UEFA.
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